The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is set to announce new fuel prices today, with oil marketers warning of a possible sharp increase in pump prices.
Expected Fuel Price Increase
Industry players estimate that petrol prices could rise by up to Sh37 per litre, while diesel may jump by as much as Sh70 per litre.
The anticipated hike has already triggered panic buying and hoarding as consumers brace for higher costs.
Government Intervention Possible
Experts say the government could cushion consumers by activating the Fuel Stabilisation Fund, which may help absorb part of the increase despite global pressures.
Global Conflict Driving Prices
The current fuel price pressure has been linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East, following a February 28 joint attack on Iran by Israel and the United States.
Retaliatory actions by Iran have targeted key Gulf supply routes, affecting countries like Kenya that rely on imports under the Government-to-Government (G-to-G) framework.
Strait of Hormuz Under Spotlight
The Strait of Hormuz, which handles about 20 percent of global oil supply, has become a focal point after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a naval blockade targeting Iranian-linked shipping.
This has heightened fears of supply disruptions and rising global oil prices.
Current Pump Prices
As per the March–April cycle, fuel prices currently stand at:
- Super Petrol: Sh178.28
- Diesel: Sh166.54
- Kerosene: Sh152.78
These prices have remained unchanged for nearly two months despite global volatility.
Wandayi Signals Possible Increase
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has hinted that an increase may be inevitable.
“Fuel prices are up worldwide… the truth of the matter is prices are high,” he told the National Assembly Committee on Energy.
He also noted that Kenya’s fuel remains more expensive compared to neighbouring countries due to higher taxation.
Consumers Brace for Impact
With the new EPRA announcement imminent, Kenyans are anxiously waiting to see whether the government will intervene or allow the full impact of global oil market volatility to reflect at the pump.
